With Aperture 3, there are probably some really happy photogs out there. In hindsight, Aperture 2 was wonky, slow, and quite impractical whereas Aperture 3 puts new features and much-needed changes into a sleeker, better built package.
A few things I like ::
The ability to navigate photos in full screen. I mean, who needs all that clutter?
Obviously, the new brushes. They eliminate a lot of Photoshop work — which simply eats time. You can brush in or out any adjustment aperture offers, extending its workflow. I imagine sometimes, even with that super money shot, Photoshop won’t even have to be used. Cool.
Faster. My computer is pretty old and can be a pain for any RAW editing (especially with Aperture 2). Aperture 3, even though it still makes my computer sound like an atom bomb (i assume thats what they sound like), is much faster than Aperture 2. I’m not even processing it in 64-bit mode and it is still noticeably faster.
Adjustment presets. I haven’t used these that much, but I see them being my best friend for my next photo-motion….
The fact that I can merge/export/import libraries. I can now have a couple master libraries on external Hard Drives for backup and have a “home-base” type library. Then I can store the shoot I’m currently working on directly on my computer, which gives better load times, and hassle free adjustments because the files are native. Whenever I feel it’s time, I can simply merge my ‘current-project’ library into my main library, back it up, and get on with my life. Stupid simple.
Easy publish to flickr/facebook. Obviously not a maker or a breaker, but why wouldn’t it access social media? It’s become so important for photogs.
Importing is way improved. I can attach meta data, location, etc. with presets or by import. Again, Apple simplified the process here.
Lastly, it’s easier to utilize attached audio. Aperture 3 imports it and can organize by which photos have an audio attachment. Something I’ve always needed, being such a junk show of camera gear in the field. I can NEVER find my notepad.
The buzz has been about Lightroom taking over, but I think Apple retorted in the best way possible. I deem it a worthy upgrade, especially with a super, lightning fast computer.
